This shrub is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.

Position: full sun or partial shade

Soil: moderately-fertile, moist, well-drained neutral to acid soil

Rate of growth: slow-growing

Flowering period: December to February

Hardiness: fully hardy

Larger than average spider-like flowers adorn the bare stems of this spreading shrub throughout the winter, emitting their light scent on milder days. A recipient of an RHS Award of Garden Merit, it is wonderful for adding seasonal interest to shrub borders and woodland settings. It also merits a mention for its autumn foliage display, when the green leaves turn buttery shades before they are shed.

Garden care: In early-spring remove any misplaced, crossing or diseased branches and apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted compost or manure around the base of the plant.